Chronic Lower Back Pain

A Potential Sign of a Herniated Disc and How to Treat It

Lower back pain is a common issue among adults, often dismissed as a minor health concern. However, sharp pain in the lower back that radiates to the legs, along with numbness and muscle weakness, could indicate a serious condition—a herniated disc. Left untreated, a herniated disc could potentially lead to paralysis.

A herniated disc occurs when the gel-like substance inside a spinal disc bulges or ruptures, putting pressure on nearby nerves. This condition can develop due to repetitive strain on the spine, heavy lifting, injuries to the spinal cord, or age-related spinal degeneration.

Herniated discs can occur anywhere along the spine, from the cervical spine (neck) to the lumbar spine (lower back). Most patients experience back pain in the middle or lower back, which can be felt on one or both sides. Symptoms may worsen when coughing, sneezing, or bending over. In severe cases, numbness and muscle weakness can occur.

Signs and Stages of a Herniated Disc

• Early Stage: The initial symptoms of a herniated disc often involve intermittent back pain that becomes more frequent and lasts for over two weeks.

  
  

• Intermediate Stage: As the condition progresses, the spinal disc may bulge or slip, causing sharp pain that radiates from the back down the legs, possibly extending to the feet. Leg numbness may also appear.

  
  

• Severe Stage: In advanced cases, the nerve compression worsens, leading to increased pain, numbness, and muscle weakness. If untreated, severe nerve damage may result in permanent complications such as paralysis.

  
  

Diagnosing a Herniated Disc

To accurately diagnose a herniated disc, doctors will first review your medical history and perform a physical examination. Imaging tests such as CT scans and MRI scans are typically used to visualize the spinal structures and confirm the location of the herniated disc. MRI is especially helpful for identifying the exact area of nerve compression.

"Are you experiencing persistent lower back pain or think you might have a herniated disc? Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent further complications"

Treatment Options for a Herniated Disc

The treatment for a herniated disc varies based on the severity of the condition and the symptoms.

• Non-Surgical Treatments: In mild to moderate cases, non-surgical treatments are usually the first approach. These may include pain medications, muscle relaxants, or steroid injections to manage inflammation. Physical therapy is also essential to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine and alleviate pain. For the best results, physical therapy should be consistent and guided by a rehabilitation specialist

  
  

• Surgical Intervention: When medications and physical therapy do not provide relief, minimally invasive spine surgery may be required. Endoscopic spine surgery is a highly preferred option. It involves inserting a small camera into the area where the nerve is compressed, allowing the surgeon to minimize muscle removal and tissue damage. This approach involves a small incision (around 0.8 centimeters), which reduces the recovery time, minimizes blood loss, and lowers the risk of infection. Additionally, intraoperative neuromonitoring is used to monitor nerve function during surgery, reducing the risk of complications.

Preventing a Herniated Disc

Preventing a herniated disc starts with maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Regular exercises to strengthen the core muscles, maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding smoking, and practicing proper posture when sitting and sleeping are key preventive measures. Additionally, avoid lifting heavy objects and seek early medical attention for persistent lower back pain to minimize the risk of spinal degeneration and its associated complications.

Talk to a doctor at Sehha Care today to explore personalized treatment options and get expert advice on your journey to a pain-free life.